I ran the numbers with rough and likely mildly pessimistic estimates of total rehab, based on paying $425 total to have it in good enough shape to keep 70% of rent, then assuming loan cost of 6.5% (definitely pessimistic since the last two were around 5% for me), and they aren't all that attractive-  If $425k total in-Rent for $4200 total =$2940/month using 70% rule$2535/month P+I for $340k borrowed at 6.5% for 20 years $1500 insurance plus $2740 Taxes=$353/month for Taxes and insurance$2890 total MTI =Marginal to no cash flow, $7800 per year in paydown- so about 10% on the $80k I have in, Then market gain leveraged X 5- This is the big wild card, and the one where I may be less optimistic than the rest of the crowd. 4% sustained yearly gain would make the whole thing seem really attractive all of a sudden- but I don't see our economy expanding in the middle class enough for this to keep happening for much longer :(a 1% cheaper loan saves only $200/month- still weak sauce cash-flow wise. 

Not one person can do everything for everyone, each person has their strengths and their weaknesses and when it comes to their weaknesses we reach out to others for help and when it comes to our strengths we help those around us when they need it and try to teach them while doing so. 

I do not have the time with my current stuff going on, but I can help in an email, if you need something.Not a big fan of the REIA model, it preys on the weak, who are looking for information, thinking that the local REIA MUST be where all the successful investors are located.

This business is not for the weak.  

what are your strengths and weaknesses with business? 

We just don't have enough info about you, your goals, your market, your strengths and weaknesses, etc.I would be more than happy to chat further with you and give you my personal advice based on my personal experience.Best,Lennon

At the same time, if we do get into a recession or economic downturn, those areas with weak demand will virtually dry up and it doesn't matter what you do to stand out if there is no one to market to.I only look at markets where the demand rating is over 80% with occupancy rates that are stable or growing.

The Fed is lowering interest rates because economies outside the USA are weak. 

My weakness is chocolate decadent desserts (ummmhhh).

Also, they have a lot of properties in them which is good for diversification (although there are also some crowdfunding/syndication deals that do too).However, their size is also a weakness because they have to compete against all the other huge REITs and together they tend to bid up the prices that they all have to pay.